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Launch of the Steamer Jacob H. Vanderbilt.

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September 19, 1862, Page 3 The New York Times Archives

This steamer, which has been built by Capt. DEGROOT, of well-known steamboat fame, was launched yesterday afternoon from the yard of MICHAEL ALLISON, head of Greene-st., Jersey City. The vessel is called after Mr. JACOB H. VANDERBILT, one of the principal owners and managers of the Stonington line of steamers, who commanded at one time the celebrated steamer Lexington. The Vanderbilt is of the following dimensions: Length over all, 200 feet; breadth of beam, 29 feet; depth of hold, 9 feet 3 inches. She is arched and diagonally braced in a peculiar manner, thereby giving the great strength for either river or ocean service. In her construction neither pains nor expense have been spared to make her the best vessel of her class afloat. Her engine combines all the modern improvements, and of a size capable of going to their unequaled speed with great strength in addition. Her internal fittings are to be of a gorgeous character.

Her hull was built by Mr. M. ALLISON, and her machinery is being constructed by Messrs. COBB & FIELD, of Jersey City. It will be remembered that they built the engines for the gunboats Resolute and Reliance, now on the Potomac, built and sold to Government at the beginning of the rebellion, by Capt. DEGROOT. The joiners' work to be done by Messrs. KING & EELS, the well-known joiners. The painting and decorations by STEPHEN ROGERS, Esq.

The ship-yard whence the vessel was launched, presented a gay appearance, New-York and New-Jersey being well represented. Among those present were Commissioner NICHOLSON, Ex-Governor of the Almshouse, WASHINGTON SMITH, Judge CONNOLLY, HENRY HAVEMEYER, Esq., Mr. HARRIOT, President of the Greenwich Fire Insurance Company, Dr. SAYERS, and others.

At 3 1/2 o'clock the blocks were cut out, and the vessel launched smoothly, and without a jar, into the water.

A version of this archives appears in print on September 19, 1862, on Page 3 of the New York edition with the headline: Launch of the Steamer Jacob H. Vanderbilt. Order Reprints|Today's Paper|Subscribe